Letter: New Sheboygan Falls middle school is fiscally responsible

Editor's question: Is a tax increase worth a new and improved school for Sheboygan Falls' middle school students? Click here to comment.

Objections to the new Sheboygan Falls middle school come in the name of "fiscal responsibility." Let's take a moment to consider that. If the proposed referendum fails, the district will be forced to address major structural concerns at the existing school (roof repairs, masonry work, heating system upgrades, asbestos abatement, mold removal etc.). Money will be taken from education programs to keep the building on life support.

These repairs don't fix security issues, create new learning spaces, upgrade technology, or even provide air conditioning. Why would we spend millions on a building already on its last legs?

Fiscal responsibility - build a new school!

The school district's current credit rating is "AA." We are in a position to capitalize on historically low interest rates. The plan has been "reigned in" to more accurately reflect our community's priorities. The survey the district did after last year's failed referendum indicated broad support for a referendum between $28 million and $31 million. The board took that survey, studied it, and came back with a plan that reflects the values and priorities of Sheboygan Falls District residents.

As each year passes, interest rates and construction costs will continue to rise. We've already seen a $1 million increase in construction costs due to inflation. It's time to stop stepping over dollars to pick up pennies.

We have an opportunity, right here, right now, to have a huge impact on generations of Sheboygan Falls residents. Yes, our taxes will go up, but our dollars are not going to Washington, or even to Madison. They're staying right here, making our community a better place, giving construction workers jobs and our kids a better learning environment.